Time’s Up: MIFA Calls for Urgent Action on Mental Health Support Gaps

The Mental Illness Fellowship of Australia (MIFA) has issued a strong call to action for all levels of government to address the serious lack of community supports for people living with severe mental health challenges and their families.

An estimated 230,500 Australians are currently missing out on critical supports—such as help with daily living, housing, and employment. MIFA CEO Tony Stevenson says that despite repeated commitments, action has fallen far short, and the impact on individuals and carers is unacceptable.

“People impacted by schizophrenia face a 19-year gap in life expectancy. They’re often in poor physical health, spend long periods in hospital, and face a high risk of homelessness and poverty,” said Mr Stevenson.

“We are three years into the National Mental Health Agreement and there is still no funding split, no clear service models, and no plan to close the gap. It’s time up.”

MIFA is urging the upcoming June Health Ministers Meeting to deliver:

• A co-funding arrangement between governments
• Increased access to community supports for individuals and carers
• Lived experience-led co-design of future supports
• A commitment to close the support gap by 2030

Read the full media release